How to get your home ready for a tradesperson's visit

For a quote visit

• Clear access to the area, including any loft hatch, stopcock, fuse box or meter they may need to see.
• Have your brief, photos and any ideas ready to show.
• Write down your questions in advance.
• Make sure someone who can make decisions is there.
• Have any plans, guarantees or certificates for previous work to hand.

Know the history of the house

Tell them about known problems, past repairs and anything that has been done recently. Details like damp, old wiring or previous extensions help them to give an accurate price.

Before work starts

• Move furniture, ornaments and valuables out of the work area.
• Protect floors and anything you cannot move.
• Arrange parking and somewhere to put materials and the skip.
• Agree start time, tea and toilet arrangements, and how you will be contacted.
• Secure pets and tell neighbours if there will be noise or deliveries.

Check the paperwork

Make sure you have the signed quote, the agreed start date, the payment plan and any permissions or approvals in place before anyone starts.

On the day

Walk through the job with the person in charge, confirm what is happening that day and agree how you will talk about changes. Keep a record of anything agreed on the day.

Mistakes to avoid

• Leaving valuables and paperwork out.
• Being out when the tradesperson arrives, with no one who can decide.
• Not mentioning known problems.

Show them what you want

A GlowUpp redesign of your own photo is a quick way to explain what you have in mind before the visit. Always ask a qualified professional before moving gas, electrics or plumbing, or changing anything structural, and check your lease or local rules if you rent or live in a conservation area.